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* Special audiophile formats from Japan: SHM-SACD, Blu-spec CD, HQCD and SHM-CD!

Philadelphia-native composer, arranger and pianist John di Martino is a versatile musician who is equally comfortable in the straight ahead jazz, Latin jazz and world music scenes. In addition to appearing on numerous albums as a sideman, di Martino has released several well-received leader albums from the Japanese Venus Records under the moniker "Romantic Jazz Trio."

Following the 2007 Thelonious Monk songbook Magical Mystery, this latest release is a collection of classic Latin tunes. di Martino shows his deep understanding of Latin jazz -- he has played with Victor Venegas, Ray Baretto and Bobby Sanabria to name a few -- and is perfectly aided by Hans Glawischnig, the in-demand bassist from Austria who almost specializes in Latin jazz (also a fellow Ray Baretto alumnus) and Willie Martinez who handles drums and percussion.

Well-known and beloved Latin melodies, written by composers from Puerto Rico, Mexico, Cuba, Spain and Venezuela, are presented here with sizzling romanticism and passion. The three master musicians enhance these great materials with their superb jazz chops and inspired solos. The typically big, powerful sound of this Venus release is further enhanced by their decision to adopt the latest CD formulation called HQCD (see below). Highly recommended for audiophiles and fans of passionate and romantic Latin jazz!

Produced by Tetsuo Hara and Todd Barkan. Recorded at The Avatar Studio in New York on April 15 & 16, 2008. Engineered by Katherine Miller. Mixed and mastered by Venus Hyper Magnum Sound Direct Mix: Tetsuo Hara. HQCD (High Quality CD) is a new CD formulation developed by EMI Music Japan. The higher quality polycarbonate material developed for LCD panels and specially formulated amalgam -- instead of regular alumunum -- in its reflective layer improve the sound quality by reducing reading errors in playback. It is compatible with all regular CD players.